Do It Yourself Plumbing Made Easy: How to Install a Water Heater with NIBCO Flexible Push Connectors

The prospect of installing a water heater yourself can be intimidating, but NIBCO Flexible Push connectors ensure a fast and easy option with no solder, crimping, joining material, or special tools needed. Just push connecting tubing into valve, connector, or fitting until it stops. The interlocking design creates a secure connection, and the removal tool easily disconnects any joint - installing up to 95% faster than traditional joining methods. NIBCO Push-to-Connect flexible products are ideal for water heater installations, creating a secure, leak-proof connection you can count on. Follow these instructions to successfully install NIBCO Flexible Push connectors to your water heater.

Step 1: Getting Started

Before installing Flexible Push connectors, follow your water heater manufacturer's instructions until you are ready to connect the water line.

Remember: the main water valve, gas, and/or electric supply should be disconnected and shut off.

Step 2: Attach hose to nipple and mark tube

Tighten the threaded end of the Flexible Push connector to the water heater nipple (Water heater nipples may not be included with your water heater).

Using the flexible hose, determine where to cut the copper water line.

Mark the tube at least 2” below the push fitting end on the copper tube.

Step 3: Cut tube

Using your measurement, cut the copper tube water lines square using a tube cutter or fine-toothed saw.

Water may drain out.

Deburr the tube inside and out using a half-round file or deburring tool to remove sharp edges, and clean the tube end to remove all dirt, oil and grease.

If you are using PEX tubing, you will need to use a PEX stiffener.

Step 4: Insert tube

Mark the tube to indicate the proper tube insertion depth. (Insert to a depth of 7/8” for 1/2” nominal pipe or 1” for a ¾” nominal pipe.)

Connect the push fitting end of the Flexible Push connector to the clean, undamaged pipe using a twisting motion. Be sure not to straighten too tight or kink Flexible Push Connector hose.

Step 5: Wrapping Up

Make sure the tube and fitting are securely connected by checking that the depth mark meets the release collar.

Repeat the process for the second Flexible Push connector.

That's all there is to it!

Congratulations on installing your water heater with NIBCO Flexible Push connectors! As you can see, NIBCO Push-to-Connect fittings, valves, and connectors are incredibly easy to use, helping you save time, making installations simple, and backed by a 25-year warranty from a company you can trust. Want more information? Download "The Essential Push-to-Connect Quick Reference Guide" now for free!